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How to Migrate from Synthesia to Runway (Step-by-Step)

Last updated: April 2026

Migrating from Synthesia to Runway offers expanded creative possibilities beyond avatar-based video generation. While Synthesia excels at consistent corporate training content with AI avatars, Runway provides a comprehensive creative suite with advanced video generation, editing, and VFX tools powered by models like Gen-3 Alpha. This guide covers the complete migration process including data export/import, workflow adaptation, feature mapping, and timeline estimates. You'll learn how to transition from text-to-avatar videos to Runway's broader creative ecosystem while maintaining your existing content assets and adapting to new AI-powered workflows.

Estimated Timeline

solo user

2-4 weeks (including learning curve and content recreation)

small team

4-6 weeks (with coordination and training)

enterprise

8-12 weeks (including workflow redesign and team training)

Migration Steps

Audit Your Synthesia Content and Workflows

easy

Export All Synthesia Assets and Data

medium

Set Up Runway Account and Workspace

easy

Recreate Key Templates in Runway

hard

Migrate Existing Content to Runway

medium

Train Your Team on Runway Workflows

medium

Parallel Run and Quality Assurance

medium

Complete Transition and Optimize

easy

Feature Mapping

Synthesia	Runway Equivalent	Notes
AI Avatars	Text/Image-to-Video Generation	Runway doesn't have pre-built avatars but can generate human characters via prompts
Text-to-Speech in 130+ Languages	Voiceover Generation	Runway offers voice generation but with different language support and voice options
Template-Based Video Creation	Prompt-Based Video Generation	Runway uses generative prompts instead of predefined templates
Screen Recorder Integration	Video Import and AI Editing	Runway can enhance imported screen recordings with AI tools
Brand Customization (Logos/Colors)	Style Presets and Asset Library	Similar branding capabilities but implemented differently
Team Collaboration	Workspace Sharing	Both support team workflows but with different permission structures
Auto-Translations	Manual Translation Required	Runway lacks built-in auto-translation features
Consistent Avatar Output	Variable Generative Output	Runway's results vary more between generations

Data Transfer Guide

Export from Synthesia: Download all final videos via the dashboard export function. Save scripts as text files since project files aren't transferable. Capture avatar preferences, timing data, and template configurations in spreadsheets. Import to Runway: Upload video files to Runway's media library for editing or enhancement. For new content, use exported scripts as prompts in Runway's text-to-video generator. Recreate branding elements manually in Runway's editor. Note that direct project file transfer isn't possible due to fundamentally different architectures—Synthesia uses avatar-based generation while Runway employs generative AI models. Focus on transferring final assets and recreating workflows rather than attempting direct file conversion.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I transfer my data from Synthesia to Runway?+

You can export final videos and scripts, but project files don't transfer directly. Runway uses different architecture, so you'll recreate content using exported assets as starting points rather than importing Synthesia projects.

How long does migration take?+

Migration typically takes 2-12 weeks depending on content volume and team size. Solo users need 2-4 weeks for learning and recreation, while enterprises require 8-12 weeks for full workflow transition and training.

Will I lose any features switching to Runway?+

You'll lose Synthesia's consistent AI avatars and auto-translation features. However, you gain advanced video generation, editing tools, and creative flexibility. Some corporate training workflows may require adaptation.

Can I use both tools during migration?+

Yes, run both platforms in parallel for 2-4 weeks. This allows comparison, workflow testing, and gradual transition without disrupting ongoing production. Maintain both subscriptions during this period.

Is Runway cheaper than Synthesia?+

Runway offers freemium pricing with different value propositions. For avatar-heavy content, Synthesia may be more cost-effective. For creative video generation and editing, Runway provides more tools per dollar. Compare specific use cases.